Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Monday approved an extensive security and facilitation plan for Muharram, including the installation of QR-code-enabled panic buttons at 4,700 Imambargahs across the province, marking what officials described as a first-of-its-kind technological initiative in Punjab's history, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
Chairing a high-level meeting on Muharram arrangements, security and public facilitation, the chief minister directed authorities to implement a comprehensive three-tier security plan throughout the province and ensure the use of modern technology to safeguard mourners and processions.
Under the new system, organisers of majalis and religious gatherings will be able to scan QR codes linked to panic buttons, enabling immediate response from relevant security and administrative agencies in case of any emergency. Maryam appealed to organizers to download and use the QR-code system to strengthen security arrangements.
The meeting was informed that 37,868 majalis and 9,412 processions are expected to be held across Punjab during Muharram, bringing the total number of religious gatherings and processions to 47,280.
To ensure security, 125,641 police personnel will be deployed across the province, while 61 companies of the Pakistan Army and 76 companies of Rangers have been requisitioned. In addition, 30,445 trained volunteers will assist law enforcement agencies in maintaining law and order.
Officials briefed the chief minister that the Punjab Safe Cities Authority would conduct live digital monitoring of Muharram activities through more than 5,623 CCTV cameras installed across the province. The monitoring system will also utilize 1,040 body cameras, modern drones and more than 1,000 4G event cameras deployed at sensitive locations.
More than 1,400 officers will perform round-the-clock monitoring duties from Safe Cities control rooms. Authorities also announced LTE communication coverage for the headquarters of 11 districts in case mobile phone services are suspended during Muharram.
The chief minister directed authorities to intensify Intelligence-Based Operations (IBOs) against banned organisations and elements threatening peace. Officials informed the meeting that 43 targeted IBOs had already been conducted across Punjab.
Authorities have imposed a complete ban on the use of drones during Muharram and warned that illegal use of loudspeakers would not be tolerated. No new processions or routes will be permitted beyond those already licensed and approved.
The meeting was also informed that 794 religious scholars have been barred from delivering speeches and 1,418 individuals have been prohibited from entering certain areas as part of measures to prevent hate speech and sectarian tensions. A complete ban on hate speech, wall chalking and the display of weapons will remain in force.
According to officials, cyber response teams have been activated after tracing 359 social media accounts allegedly involved in spreading provocative or inflammatory content.
The chief minister directed the Clean Punjab Authority to ensure cleanliness and the use of fragrance along procession routes. She also announced arrangements to provide cold sweet water, sabeels and sanitation facilities for mourners throughout the province.
Maryam paid tribute to district administrations for their cleanliness arrangements during Eidul Adha and stressed that similar standards should be maintained during Muharram.
Officials further informed the meeting that 1,220 coordination meetings had already been held at the grassroots level under peace committees across Punjab to ensure smooth observance of Muharram and strengthen cooperation among all stakeholders.